HEALTH chiefs say the highest number of new coronavirus cases in Bury are among those aged 18-39 - and more can be done to avoid a local lockdown.

The numbers account for more than half of all those tested positive, according to the latest figures for the borough.

Under the same statistics, it has been revealed the weekly infection rate in Bury has risen again, with 51 confirmed new cases in the week ending August 8 – up from 38 the previous week, and 22 the week before that.

And the seven-day infection rate in Bury is now 26.8 per 100,000 population, up from 20.0 last week and 11.5 previously.

The rate of transmission among households is considered to be a main factor in driving the increase.

Cllr Andrea Simpson, health cabinet member, said: “This is the fourth weekly rise in a row in Bury.

"While the overall numbers are relatively low, we are now recording more than double the number of cases we had just a fortnight ago, which is a serious cause for concern.

“Our data suggests that transmission among households is a leading cause of this increase, and cases are spread across the borough, from Ramsbottom down to Sedgley Park.

“And now we’re seeing that under-40s are the highest category of new cases. It’s simple – we must follow the rules or face the prospect of being put back into full-blown lockdown.”

Residents are being reminded that in Bury and Greater Manchester people must not meet those you do not live with inside a private home or garden.

The restrictions also say you must not visit someone else’s home or garden - even if they live outside the affected areas.

Further there should be no socialising with people you do not live with in other indoor public venues – such as pubs, restaurants, cafes, shops, places of worship, community centres, leisure and entertainment venues, or visitor attractions.

Face coverings must also be worn in shops and supermarkets, public transport, banks and post offices, cinemas or theatres, places of workshop, libraries and museums and community centres.

Cllr Simpson added: “Our licensing officers, and the police, have been out visiting premises and households where people are allegedly breaking the law and not following the guidance, and will take enforcement action where necessary.

“But this is all about people taking individual responsibility for their actions. Even if you don’t care about catching the virus yourself, at least think about others who you may pass the virus to. We’ve already had 240 deaths in Bury from coronavirus, and we don’t want a single one more.”